In the face of labor shortages, some growers have found that embracing an open and supportive approach toward their workers helps with attracting and retaining a skilled labor force which is key to thriving in the agricultural industry. By prioritizing the well-being of their employees, these growers have cultivated an environment that not only fosters productivity but also sparks motivation and loyalty among their workforce. Offering competitive wages, providing access to essential resources, and supporting a healthy work-life balance, have become powerful incentives for workers to join and remain committed to the agricultural sector.
In this blog, we highlight ways that EFI-certified farming operations are supporting their workers, from providing essential school supplies to fostering flexibility for precious family moments, from supporting their workers in times of need to be a path to make their dreams come true. These companies have improved in the art of creating a balance between work and family life. Get ready to be inspired by the remarkable stories that exemplify the power of nurturing dreams and empowering lives at EFI-certified farms.
Gearing Up for Success During Back-to-School Time
Every year, as the back-to-school season approaches, the workers of Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce/GoodFarms at Sierra Farms receive school supplies for their children and grandchildren. During our conversation with Nubia, Juan, Candelaria, Hector, Dionisio, and Maria, agricultural workers for the company, one sentiment resonated among them: the backpacks filled with notebooks, pens, pencils, erasers, and all the essentials for their kids’ education proved to be invaluable support. Not only did it save them time and money, but it also filled their children with excitement to start each school year fully equipped.
Moreover, the support doesn’t end there. Workers also have access to a drive-thru food bank and a clothing closet for all ages. The company’s commitment to the well-being of its employees extends beyond the workplace, creating a nurturing environment for everyone involved.
Family-Friendly Schedule to Unlock Work-Life Balance
At Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce, Candelaria and Barbara are dedicated employees. They are also proud and caring mothers. The company’s supportive environment has always made them feel comfortable seeking permission or requesting flexible schedules to be with their children when needed.
Barbara’s son’s exceptional academic achievements have made her proud. When her son was the student of the month, Barbara promptly asked for permission to celebrate these milestones with him. The company’s understanding and flexibility have allowed her to cherish these precious moments with her son. Similarly, Candelaria treasures the importance of being present for her children, especially during the first day of school. To ensure she doesn’t miss this special occasion, she requests to arrive later than usual. This way, she can personally take her kids to school, meet their teachers, and give them the love and support they need as they embark on a new school year.
Helping Families Thrive During Difficult Times
The support provided to families at Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce/ Good Farms extends far beyond creating a positive environment for workers and their children. During a particularly harsh rainy season in spring, Hector and Esperanza faced a devastating loss when their home was severely damaged by a flood, leaving them with virtually nothing. When news of their situation reached the company, they were provided with a safe place to stay and received significant aid to refurbish their home, allowing them to start anew.
Hector and Esperanza’s story is a testament to their resilience during adversity. They are deeply grateful for the support from Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce managers and colleagues, acknowledging that such caring attention was a motivation to always give their best at work. This experience reinforced the belief that they are part of a company that genuinely cares about its employees’ well-being and welfare.
From Dreams to Reality Through Seasonal Guest Worker Programs
Every season, workers from other countries have the chance to apply for temporary visas and work in the agricultural industry during peak times. We talked with Julian and Zoreyda from Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce/ Good Farms and learned about Juan’s incredible story from Windset Farms® employee newsletter. The three workers have come every season for the last few years, and share their positive experiences with other workers considering guest worker programs.
Juan and his wife had small baking equipment at home and sold bread informally. When Juan started working for Windset Farms® as a temporary worker, his first goal was to build his own house and hopefully, one day have a bakery. Since starting seasonal work with Windset in 2018, he has been able to accomplish both. He opened a bakery in his house located in Guatemala and named it “Windset,” after the company that made his dream come true. Juan recently finished his final year as a seasonal worker with Windset and will be expanding and working at his bakery full-time.
Zureyda says she got the H-2A visa at a moment when she felt stuck, hopeless. It was a second chance in her life, it allowed her to pay her debts, support her family, and get her own house. Julian, who also worked for Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce, became a temporary worker at the age of 21. He left college because he didn’t have enough money to pay for it, so Julian appreciates the H-2A program as another chance. Now he has a beautiful family, he built his own home in Mexico and also built a home for his mom. He appreciates the opportunity to be selected and come back every season.
Overall, these stories demonstrate how companies that prioritize their employees’ well-being and family support contribute to a more nurturing and fulfilling work environment, leading to a happier and more motivated workforce.
Written by Alexandra Martinez, Marketing & Sales Associate for EFI
